Wives of officers detained over the alleged coup plot to overthrow President Bola Tinubu-led government have demanded access to their husbands.
In a video circulated on social media, the women who were seen shedding tears as their leader read their message, condemned the continued detention of their husbands without arraignment, formal charges, or commencement of trial.
“We request that trials must commence immediately in open court of law visible to all Nigerians. We don’t want anything done secretly.
“The military publicly stated over six weeks ago that investigations have been concluded. If that is the case justice must now move forward.
“Our husbands were arrested between late September and early October and have remained in custody for several months without being brought before a court of competent jurisdiction.
“This prolonged detention without judicial process raises serious constitutional concerns under Sections 35 and 36 of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (1999, as amended), which guarantee the right to personal liberty and fair hearing within a reasonable time,” they stated.
Furthermore, they appealed to Nigerians, Civil society organisations, international community, religious leaders and human rights groups to pay close attention to the matter as well as follow the case closely and lend their voices in defence of due process.
They said, “Some of us have faced intimidation from men in uniform. Our husbands have served this country on the frontlines, risking their lives in defence of the federal republic of Nigeria. Today their families are left in fear, uncertainty and unanswered questions. We appeal to Tinubu to look upon our situation with compassion, wisdom and justice. Also, look at the case with open mind. Our husbands should be treated as innocent until proven guilty by competent court of law. The allegations against them should not be used as a tool or scape goat. We want due process nothing more or less.Grant us access to our husbands. Let us know whether they are alive of safe”.
The women alleged that there are inconsistencies in the case that have raised serious concern.
‘Initially the public was told that N12 billion has been discovered in the account of one of the officers. Today, that narrative has changed – the amount is now N835million and it is reportedly in a company’s account rather than in the account of any of the officers. What was once presented as N12b has now reduced to about 93 percent .
“Furthermore, the allegations have changed. At first the officers were reportedly arrested for indiscipline. Later, the allegation became conspiracy to commit a coup d’ etat. If there is evidence it should be presented openly in the court”, they said.
